SCIBS to showcase marvelous multihulls

Multihulls are well and truly gaining broader acceptance, offering versatility, stability and unrivalled space. Providing avid sailors with the performance and the under-sail experience they seek, and newcomers with the ability to switch to power when desired, multihull boats will be well represented at the 2014 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show.

Mark Elkington, managing director at Multihull Solutions says the reasons for the rise in popularity of multihull boats are many and varied, depending on the customers and their lifestyles.

'They offer stability and as a result, superior comfort. The excellent living space, speed and safety are the key driving forces behind the growth of multihulls,' he explains.

At Multihull Central, director, Brent Vaughan says that customer and boat show feedback indicates the popularity of these yachts can be attributed to 'their stable platform and space'.

'When it comes to liveable space, they’re unbeatable. You’re not crammed down below with tiny windows. There’s no sacrifice, especially in the latest models which offer the design and amenities of a floating luxury apartment.'
Vaughan, who will be attending SCIBS with an array of brands, including Seawind, Outremer and Corsair, says each has its own market niche and characteristics.

'What they all have in common is that they’re lighter and faster, comfortable and have a shallow draft for easy beachability in bays.'

And while Seawind is certainly a brand sailors respond to, the range is just as accessible for those at entry-level. Outremer, which boasts models that have been several times winners of European Boat of the Year, is considered a step above, taking multihull sailing to the next level.

'The Outremer 49 for example is positioned at technical step advanced. It’s a great bluewater, ocean-going boat that offers families and cruising couples the comfort, performance and set-up to go anywhere. It’s also ideal for short-handed sailing, meaning you don’t need crew to handle it.'

In fact, at SCIBS this year, Vaughan hopes to present an Outremer 49 which sailed from France to New Zealand – the first time the model will be exhibited at an Australian boat show. This stunning example of a high-performance multihull will definitely attract attention and judging by its worldwide success, it will strike a chord with the Australian market.

Seawind 1000XL2

Multihull Central

Also on show will be the Seawind 1000XL2 and Seawind 1250. Multihull Central will also be promoting its Outremer 5X syndicate, which offers up to six parties part-ownership of the vessel, as well as professional skipper and crew for a fraction of the cost of a new boat.

'Owners can fly in, enjoy the boat up to eight weeks per year, cruising locations like the Med, Caribbean and South Pacific, then fly out – like superyacht ownership – for just $335,000. It’s ideal for time-poor people.'